Thailand Launches Nationwide HPV Vaccination Campaign
Thailand is undertaking a large-scale public health initiative to combat cervical cancer through a nationwide HPV vaccination programme. the campaign aims to provide free access to a nine-strain HPV vaccine to a critically important portion of the population.
According to officials, the new vaccine offers “more thorough protection against the virus” and requires only a single dose, eliminating the need for multiple appointments and reducing associated costs. “The vaccine that will be injected is a 9-strain HPV vaccine, which provides more comprehensive protection against the virus and is only a single dose, which will reduce the hassle and expense of traveling to receive the second dose of the vaccine,” explained an official involved in the program.
The program is especially focused on reaching young women. “He would like to invite Grade 5 female students and Thai females, aged 11 – 20 years, who have not received the HPV vaccine before, will receive the vaccination without charge To reduce the risk of cervical cancer in the future,” the official stated. Those who received the first dose of a different HPV vaccine last year will also be able to receive a second dose to boost their immunity.
The initiative has received strong support from high-ranking officials. “Regarding HPV vaccination, Ms. Paethongtan Shinawatra, Prime Minister, is very interested. As they want people to receive 9 types of vaccine by the Ministry of Public Health. the vaccine has been purchased at a price that is very beneficial to Thai people,” the official added. The cost savings are substantial; “Currently, if vaccination for 9 types of HPV is administered in a system outside the Ministry of Public Health It costs 5,000 baht per needle, but we bought it for over 500 baht from the Ministry of public Health. We intend to inject at least 1 million doses, including our 2 and 4 strains.”
This ambitious program highlights Thailand’s commitment to improving public health and preventing cervical cancer. The significant cost savings achieved through government procurement make the vaccine accessible to a much wider population than would otherwise be possible. This initiative serves as a model for other nations seeking to implement effective and affordable HPV vaccination programs.
